EXCESS IN VOLUME OF THE FCETUS. 377 



serious obstacle to birth, which could not be accomplished until they 

 were broken up by the fingers. 



A curious case is given by Lhomme {journal des Veterinaires dii Midi, 

 1868, p. 372) which shows, among other things, that adhesion of the 

 membranes to the uterus does not always prove an obstacle to sponta- 

 neous delivery. 



This Veterinarian was called to attend a pregnant Mare, reported to be suffering from 

 colic. The animal was lying extended on the ground, breathing heavily, struggling, and 

 making expulsive efforts. A portion of the foetal envelopes was observed to protrude 

 beyond the vulva, which led to the belief that abortion was about to take place. The 

 colic was allayed by medicines, hygienic measures were recommended, and Lhomme re- 

 tired, persuaded that the expulsion of the foetus would soon occur. Two days passed, 

 however, and he was again sent for ; as although the pains had disappeared and there 

 had been no abortion, yet the membranes still hung from the vulva. 



An examination proved that the foetus was still alive, and that the os uteri was firmly 

 closed on the extruded envelopes, so that a finger could not be introduced. There ap- 

 peared to be a veritable strangulation of the membranes which, having undergone 

 change, irritated the vagina, and made the Mare restless. 



By means of curved scissors, these extruded membranes were removed as close to 

 the cervix uteri as possible. The Mare was immediately relieved, as the pawing, stamp- 

 ing, and whisking of the tail ceased. No opinion could be given as to the result, the 

 case being so unusual. It was certain that the embryonal sac had, by this operation, 

 been opened ; but then there was no escape of liquor amnii, owing to the closure of the 

 OS on the remaining portion of the envelopes. But the question was whether the fluids 

 would yet escape, or whether this would be prevented by cicatrization of the membranes 

 on the distal side of the strangulation. It was still three months to the time for partu- 

 rition, and the owner of the Mare was recommended to report whenever the slightest 

 sign of illness appeared ; and if abortion should take place, he was requested to keep 

 the foetus and membranes for Lhomme's inspection. 



The animal continued to enjoy perfect health, however, and at eleven months and 

 twelve days — three months and two days after the operation — it brought forth a strong 

 and perfectly-formed mule. The foetal envelopes were carefully examined, and a cica- 

 trix was discovered which corrugated and united them together ; from this part they 

 were in plaits to the extent of several inches, and these plaits were destitute of villi. 

 The opening in the membranes through which the foetus had passed was between two 

 and three inches from the cicatrix. 



xA.dhesions, when they exist and are a cause of dystokia, and when they 

 can be reached, must be broken up or cut through. In the majority of 

 cases, the fingers will suffice ; if not, then a bistoury must be used. 



Difficulty in parturition in the Cow is sometimes experienced from the 

 envelopes being torn in several places, and the head or limbs, or both, 

 passing through these fissures. 



In such cases the entangled parts of the foetus must be sought for, re- 

 leased, and brought into a favorable position by tearing or cutting through 

 the obstacles. 



Frornage de Feugre {Cours Complet, vol. i., p. 87) reports an observation furnished 

 by Lacueille. A Heifer was in labor for five hours, and was much exhausted by the 

 manipulations of amateurs. The calf presented the head and one fore-leg. Lacueille, 

 instead of acting with precipitation, allowed an interval to occur between each of his 

 attempts at extraction ; but an hour elapsed before he could discover the elbow of the 

 other fore limb, which was entangled in the torn envelopes. Delivery was soon after 

 effected, and the membranes came away with the calf. 



Abnormal Quantity of Placental Fluid. 



We have already described the condition known as " hydramnios," and 

 have pointed out that when it exists abortion nearly always takes place. 

 When the accumulation of fluid interferes with parturition, labor is slow 



